Payson-area things to do

by Ron Dungan - Jun. 22, 2012 03:47 PMThe Republic | azcentral.com

The Mogollon Rim offers a quick, scenic respite from the desert heat, with cool lakes, shady pines and scenic views just a couple of hours away. Here are things to do on your next trip to the high country.

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See what's for sale at the Fourth of July Arts and Crafts Festival in Pine, where artists will display jewelry, wood items, photos, paintings, glassware, pottery, homemade clothing and other items.

"This is our 32nd year, and we have 87 vendors," said Gail Jones of the Pine Strawberry Arts and Crafts Guild.

The sale takes place at the community center. It's next to the library, which is having a book sale. Proceeds will benefit the local food bank, museum, senior center, school, fire department and search-and-rescue unit.

"We have quite a bit going on, and there are lots of antiques stores along the street," Jones said.

Details: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, June 30; 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, July 1. Along Arizona 87 in Pine, about 19 miles north of Payson. Free. pinestrawhs.org/events.html.

Woods Canyon Lake is a summer favorite, with camping, hiking and trout fishing. The lake has a store and a boat ramp, and rentals are available. Only electric motors are allowed on the lake. The Woods Canyon Lake Trail provides an easy, 5.5-mile walk around the water. The trail is mostly flat, with a few hills. The lake is atop the Mogollon Rim, about 30 miles east of Payson. Take Arizona 260 east past Christopher Creek, then Forest Road 300 north to the lake.

Eat

Macky's Grill is one of those restaurants that gets it right every time. The blackened-chicken sandwich seems like a logical choice for calorie counters, though the golden-brown fries can derail your good intentions. The burgers are tasty and juicy, and everything is served by a cheerful, efficient staff. Inside and outside dining are available. Those traveling with canines will appreciate the pet-friendly patio with water-bowl service. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays-Wednesdays; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays.

The Randall House restaurant is a local favorite that unwitting out-of-towners may drive right past. Pity. Republic restaurant critic Howard Seftel visited this cozy restaurant, which serves home-cooked meals that, he wrote, a "skilled grandma might whip up in her own kitchen." The Randall House is not where you want to go if you are in a hurry, he says, because dishes are made from scratch, and it can get very busy, especially on weekends. Breakfast and lunch, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays; 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays.

Stay

Mountain Ridge Cabins are a little off the beaten path, tucked below the Rim in Tonto National Forest north of Payson. The four cabins sleep two to six people. Catch-and-release fishing is allowed on the property's ponds, and no license is required. Bring your own tackle -- barbless hooks are required. (You'll need a license to fish the lakes and streams off the property.) Cabins are available from May through October and cost $75-$100 per night, $310-$565 per week. Two-night minimum, three nights on holidays. No pets and no smoking.

Christopher Creek Lodge has a variety of cabins along the creek, and the property is well shaded by pine trees. Arizona 260 used to run through Christopher Creek, but the highway has been enlarged and rerouted away from the village. Sitting and watching the creek in the morning, you may forget there is a nearby road. Cabins cost $65-$199 per night. Some require a two-night stay. Pets allowed for an additional fee.

Along the way

Tonto Natural Bridge is considered the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. In 1877, a prospector named David Gowan ducked under the bridge and into a cave to hide from Apaches for three days. After exploring the bridge, he claimed squatters rights. Gowan later persuaded his nephew to move his family to the area. The bridge has since become a state park with hiking trails and picnic facilities.

Details: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily through Labor Day. Check the website for hours after that. About 14 miles north of Payson on Arizona 87. $5, $2 for ages 7-13. 928-476-4202, azstateparks.com/parks/TONA.